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Use the quote from Thomas Jefferson to answer the question. "In truth it is afflicting that a man who has past his life in serving the public, who has served them in every the highest stations with universal approbation, and with a purity of conduct which has silenced even party opprobrium, who tho' poor has never permitted himself to make a shilling in the public employ, should yet be liable to have his peace of mind so much disturbed by any individual who shall think proper to arraign him in a newspaper. It is however an evil for which there is no remedy. Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost. To the sacrifice, of time, labor, fortune, a public servant must count upon adding that of peace of mind and even reputation. And all this is preferable to European bondage. who doubts it need only be placed for one week on any part of the Continent of Europe...."

What Republican argument would this most likely support?

Individuals in the press cannot be trusted to make the best decisions for the country; therefore national leaders should direct the press.
O The power of allying with Europe outweighs the risk to national power or personal liberties. O The power of the press leads to personal attacks and should be limited.
O The power of the press is indispensable to the liberties of the populace.​

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Thomas Jefferson's quote supports the argument that freedom of the press is indispensable to the liberties of the populace, despite the personal cost to public servants from public scrutiny and potential defamation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The quote from Thomas Jefferson emphasizes the importance of freedom of the press despite personal consequences for public servants from possible unwarranted criticisms in newspapers. He fortifies the case that the liberty of the press is fundamental to sustaining the public's freedoms even though it often results in personal sacrifices for those in public service.

The Republican argument that this quote would most likely support is: The power of the press is indispensable to the liberties of the populace.Jefferson champions the role of the press in maintaining a vigilant check on government power, highlighting it as a key element of American rights and democracy. His views are a reflection of a political philosophy that values the freedom of the press as a cornerstone of an informed and free society, an ethos also embedded in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Despite recognizing the press's potential negative impact on individuals' reputations, Jefferson clearly articulates the greater good it serves in protecting liberty."Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.”

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